The 26-year-old, who has been called up by Egypt coach Hector Cuper for their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Uganda next month, is delighted with his move and hopes to further develop his game with The Clever Boys.

“I’m happy to be here at Bidvest Wits in South Africa, thank you to Mr Jose Ferreira and the coach [Gavin Hunt] for the opportunity to come here,” said Gamal, after his historic move was confirmed, through his translator and agent Mohamed Habshy.

“I’m looking forward to making a positive mark and paving the way for more Egyptians [footballers] to come to South Africa.

“The league here [Absa Premiership] is very strong and the teams play modern football, and it will help me to develop more at a big club like Bidvest Wits.”

Gamal was left impressed by Gavin Hunt’s side when they met in the CAF Champions League play-off round earlier this year, when Al Ahly won 1-0 over the two legs, and that influenced his decision to push the idea through.

“Normally [at Al Ahly] we watch the teams two or three times before the game, but with Wits we watched the team more than five or six times and I was impressed,” added the Pharaohs frontman.

“Wits play modern football and the game with Al Ahly was difficult, both in Egypt and South Africa, and that’s why only one goal decided the game.”

Gamal, who netted seven times in all competitions for Al Ahly last season, believes a club of Wits’ pedigree should be contesting in the semi-finals and final of the continent’s flagship club competition.

Word reaching KickOff.com is that Gamal’s registration could yet be finalised in time for their MTN8 semi-final first leg clash against Cape Town City on Sunday.